One of the attributes of my son that I have learned from was his ability to be accepting of anyone, regardless of their circumstances. He did not judge them based on their background or difficulties in life. He saw the good in people, and he pointed it out, and was able to put them at ease, and make them feel comfortable.

At the same time, he clearly saw sin, and was not afraid to confront it. He always did so in love, and let the person know that he struggled with sin issues as well, but that he had found victory over it in Christ.

Additionally, he would tell them how they could come to know this same victory. Clearly this alienated some, but most were interested, whether or not that made a commitment at that moment.

Our own ability to share Jesus with others is often blocked by our own pre-judgments, and/or fears. This same facet is too often reflected in our churches. Though His Word makes it clear we should not favor the rich over the poor, we often cater to those who have, and ignore those who do not. Many of our youth camps or other trips cost too much for many people to even be able to consider participating. Some churches offer scholarships, but even the process of securing them can be demeaning.

I realize there are not always simple answers to some of these issues, but we can each contribute to the solution, by respecting others regardless of their socioeconomic background. We can reach out to people in general, and not turn up our noses at the people who are paying the price of growing up in homes of ignorance (be it financial, social or other). For that matter, some of the most ignorant individuals are those who "have" a great deal.

One such example would be the feeling you get when a gang of motorcycle riders pull up to the restaurant you are dining in. How do you feel? Instantly uneasy. Unsure of what they will do or how they may act, and how you should respond to whatever happens. Fear enters, and can overwhelm. How will you defend yourself or your family against them?

I had that experience this weekend. A crew of 15 to 20 bikers came rolling up. Full leathers, tattoos, long hair, long beards (ZZ Top look-a-likes), etc. They were a sight you would not soon forget. Their arrival commanded attention.

You know what? They were bikers for Christ... "Bondslaves Motorcycle Club." They were some of the most genuine and precious believers I have encountered. No false pretense, no act... just followers of Christ not afraid to talk about Him. Yes they attract attention when they enter any zip code, but they point to Christ with what they say and do!

To love people as Christ loved the church takes us far outside our normal pathways in life. Caring for others regardless of ethnicity, class, or other areas of social prejudice must become part of our prayer life. For what you seek God for, often becomes an area of ministry. Don't do it unless you mean it, because God will bring opportunities your way.

In many respects, the evidence of your prayer life is reflected in how committed you are to the Lord, and/or by how you are ministering to others. The people around you notice, and they will often ask you questions, as it is foreign to them because they are often of the world and not just in it.

You have something to offer that they desperately need. The Word says to "always be prepared to give a reason" for this. I Praise God for a young man who was. He has taught me much.

dad